Pemberton Farming
Farming has been a mainstay of the Pemberton Valley since Europeans first settled here more than 100 years ago. Today this fertile valley, located just 30 minutes north of Whistler, is known world-wide for its seed potato production. The Valley is major supplier of seed potatoes to British Columbia, Alberta, Idaho, Washington, Oregon and California.
World Famous Seed Potato Production
As the gold rush dwindled, those that remained tapped the rich farmlands to establish the Pemberton Valley as a growing area for world famous seed potatoes. In 1967, the Pemberton Valley became the first commercial seed potato area in the world to grow virus-free seed potatoes. The Valley’s natural isolation created by the surrounding mountains, plus careful crop monitoring, helps to ensure the continuing success of this industry.
Using "clean" seed potatoes grown in the Valley helps reduce the amount of pesticides and other chemicals used to harvest this agricultural product.
Some farmers today are choosing to diversify by growing a variety of vegetables and berries which are sold locally and to customers in Whistler.
Organic vegetable food production and cattle agriculture is increasing in the Pemberton Meadows. And a small vineyard is also producing quality red, white and ice wines.
The Pemberton Meadows is also the location for the Slow Food Cycle Sunday held yearly in August.